Saint John: Uptown and West

Cambrian rocks are familiar to the residents of Saint John. The Uptown area of the city is mostly built on the steeply dipping shale and sandstone of the Saint John Group. They extend east and west across the city and are seen at the Reversing Rapids. The King Square Formation is easily viewed along Canterbury Street near the corner of Princess Street. Another Cambrian outcrop is located behind the Courthouse on the east side of King’s Square. Cambrian rocks are also visible at King’s Square West. In this city park one can view the King Square Formation stratotype where the formation gets its name, and enjoy scenic views of Saint John. Cambrian rocks of the Saint John Group were described first by local geologist George Matthew in the 1880s.